Written question asked by Robert Smith (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 23 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 December 2004. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Monday, 20 December 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what assessment she has made of the impact of the differential in wholesale gas prices between the UK and the EU on the (a) competitiveness of UK manufacturers and (b) economy.

Answer: Sir Robert Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the impact of the differential in wholesale gas prices between the UK and the EU on the (a) competitiveness of UK manufacturers and (b) economy. [199540] Mr. Mike O'Brien: DTI officials and Ministers meet regularly with industry groups and companies to discuss concerns on energy prices. At a recent meeting with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, representatives of the main energy intensive sectors of industry confirmed that they were fully committed to the market-related approach to energy supply. However, they were concerned about prices in the forward market for gas in Great Britain. My right hon. Friend asked officials to maintain a close dialogue with the group, to get their ideas for improving the operation of the market, and to report back.

Secondary information